A Tax File Number (TFN) is a personal reference number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It links your income, tax, superannuation and some government payments to you. It's free, it's unique to you and you keep it for life — even if you change your name, your visa or leave Australia and come back.
Who needs a TFN?
You don't legally have to have a TFN, but in practice you need one if you:
- work in Australia — as an employee, casual or part-timer;
- are a visa holder with work rights, such as a working holiday maker or international student;
- open a bank account and don't want tax withheld from your interest at the highest rate;
- join a super fund or want to combine super accounts;
- lodge a tax return or apply for some government payments.
Without a TFN, your employer must withhold tax from your pay at the highest marginal rate.
What is a TFN used for day to day?
| Situation | Why you need your TFN |
|---|---|
| Starting a job | You give it to your employer on the TFN declaration so the right amount of tax is withheld. |
| Bank accounts | Without it, banks may withhold tax on interest. |
| Superannuation | Your fund needs it to accept all types of contributions and to help you find lost super. |
| Tax return | It links your income and deductions to your ATO record. |
| Government payments | Some payments and study loans require it. |
TFN vs ABN
A TFN identifies you in the tax system. An ABN (Australian Business Number) identifies a business or enterprise. Employees only need a TFN. Contractors, freelancers and sole traders usually need both. Read more in Is an ABN the same as a TFN?.
What does it look like?
A TFN is normally a nine-digit number. There is no card: the ATO sends it to you by letter. See what a TFN looks like and where to find it.
How to get one
Applying is free on the ATO website. Visa holders with work rights apply online once they're in Australia, using their passport and linked visa. Allow up to 28 days for it to arrive by post.
If you'd like someone to prepare and check your application, we can help through our TFN application service — but the TFN is always issued by the ATO, and we can't make it faster.
Keep your TFN safe
Only give your TFN to your employer, bank, super fund, the ATO and registered tax agents. Never post it online, put it on a CV or send it by text. If you think it has been stolen, contact the ATO straight away.